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Community Development and Housing News: May 23, 2022

HUD updates NSPIRE standards, clarifies details of the Affordable Connectivity Program, issues guidance on Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and more.

Recent News

Person inspecting door of home

HUD Publishes Updates to Seven NSPIRE Standards

REAC has published updates to seven inspection standards under the new physical inspection model, NSPIRE, related to call-for-aid systems, carbon monoxide alarms, fire-labeled doors, exit signs, fire extinguishers, HVAC, and mold. The NSPIRE standards webpage includes a summary of changes. These standards may be updated again before HUD implements a final rule. Read article

 

HUD Takes Action to Expand Broadband to Low-Income Households

HUD has clarified that receiving benefits from the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) associated with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law does not count as income for determining family rent and does not impact a household’s eligibility for HUD assistance. Read article

 

HUD’s Office of Fair Housing Issues Guidance Regarding Marketing, Application, and Waitlist Processes for HUD-Assisted Multifamily Housing

New guidance from FHEO explains how Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 applies to processes in HUD-assisted multifamily properties, included PBRA housing. The document outlines how certain practices can perpetuate segregation and other issues of discrimination, and provides suggestions for implementing more inclusive practices. NLIHC summarizes the guidance. Read article

 

New Orleans and Detroit Extend Right to Counsel to Residents

The New Orleans City Council and the Detroit City Council have both unanimously passed right-to-counsel ordinances. In New Orleans, any person at risk of losing their home in eviction court now has the right to an attorney; in Detroit, low-income tenants facing eviction or involved in mortgage or property tax foreclosures will be able to receive free legal representation. Read article

 

Maine Governor Signs Two Bills to Expand Availability of Affordable Housing

Governor Janet Mills has signed into law LD 2003, which eliminates all single-family zoning restrictions and allows accessory dwelling units in all zoning districts. LD 2003 also provides support for communities to increase the supply of affordable housing and reduces barriers to multifamily housing development. LD 201, signed the same day, extends a tax credit that can help finance affordable housing development. Read article

 

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